Fastening devices and systems and methods thereof

ABSTRACT

Fastening devices and systems and methods thereof. Fastening devices and systems and methods thereof can include a unitary or one-piece body having first and second ends configured and operative to be coupled together or to be coupled to their respective complement in another of said fastening devices. The first end can include a ring or annular portion and a projection that are sized and shaped to fit around an anchor and in an orifice, respectively, of the second end. Fastening devices and systems and methods thereof according to embodiments may be used with items, including footwear, apparel, luggage, a backpack, a bag, a purse, a boxing glove, a punching bag, football or lacrosse shoulder pads, or the like.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/377,103, filed Nov. 5, 2014, which is a U.S. National Stage ofInternational Application No. PCT/US2012/041713, filed Jun. 8, 2012,which claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 13/367,362, filedFeb. 6, 2012, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein byreference in their entirety.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present invention can include a flexible fasteningdevice for fastening a first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on an articleof footwear or apparel and a second hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on thearticle of footwear or apparel, the fastening device having a bodycomprising: first means for coupling, said first means for couplingincluding a first end portion; second means for coupling, said secondmeans for coupling including a second end portion; and adjoining meansfor adjoining said first and second means for coupling, said adjoiningmeans including a body portion between said first end portion and saidsecond end portion. The body portion can be flexible and configured andoperative to flex such that said first and second end portions can beremovably coupled together or such that said first end portion can beremovably coupled to the first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on an articleof footwear or apparel and said second end portion can be removablycoupled to the second hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on the article offootwear or apparel.

Embodiments of the present invention also include a flexible fasteningdevice for fastening a first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on an articleof footwear or apparel and a second hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on thearticle of footwear or apparel. The fastening device can have a bodycomprising: a first end portion; a second end portion; and a bodyportion between said first end portion and said second end portion. Thebody portion is flexible and is configured and operative to flex suchthat said first and second end portions can be removably coupledtogether or such that said first end portion can be removably coupled tothe first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on an article of footwear orapparel and said second end portion can be removably coupled to thesecond hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on the article of footwear orapparel.

Disclosed embodiments include a one-piece flexible device comprising: afirst end portion defining a ring and having a single, flexible elongatedigit as an extremity of the device; and a second end portion coupled tosaid first end portion and having a wall having a projection extendingtherefrom and defining a first opening which provides access to achannel surrounded by said second end portion. The inside of the ring ofthe first end portion is sized to fit around the projection, and thefirst opening and the channel are sized such that the digit fitstherethrough and therein, respectively, with a base of the digitarranged adjacent to the first opening.

Optionally, the channel is a dead end channel having an end thereofformed by said second end portion. Alternatively, the second end portioncan further include a second opening on a side of said device opposite aside of said device associated with the wall and the projection, and thesecond opening can provide access to the channel. Optionally, the digitdoes not project from a plane defining the second opening when the bodyof the digit is inside the channel and the base of the digit is arrangedadjacent to the first opening. Alternatively, the digit projects from aplane defining the second opening when the body of the digit is insidethe channel and the base of the digit is arranged adjacent to the firstopening.

The second end portion may be coupled to the first end portion via anelongate body portion. Optionally, the elongate body portion can havetapered ends or threads at respective interfaces with said first andsecond end portions. Optionally, the elongate body can have a groove orgrooves arranged thereon, for instance longitudinally.

Optionally, a portion of the wall may define a flange around some or allof the projection in plan view, wherein the projection can include asidewall having a groove extending partially or completely therearound,the groove being sized to receive a corresponding portion of the insideof the ring. The projection in plan view may be one of oval, circular,rectangular, or square, and the inside of the ring in plan view may beone of circular, oval, rectangular, or square. Optionally, the plan viewshape of the projection matches the plan view shape of the inside of thering. Alternatively, the plan view shape of the projection does notmatch the plan view shape of the inside of the ring.

The device may be used as a fastener for footwear, apparel, luggage, ora bag, for instance, when said first and second end portions are coupledtogether, or as a piece of jewelry when either said first and second endportions are coupled together or one of said first end portion or saidsecond end portion of said device is coupled to the other of a secondend portion or a first end portion of another of said devices.

Embodiments of the present invention also include a fastening device forfastening a first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on an article of footwearor apparel and a second hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on the article offootwear or apparel, the fastening device having a one-piece elasticbody comprising: an anchor portion having a first face and a second faceopposite to the first face; the first face having an upstanding wallhaving a first aperture providing access to a tunnel and a generallycylindrical shaped anchor projecting upward therefrom and a flangearound the base of said anchor, said anchor having a continuous groovearound its sidewall and a domed top; the second face being substantiallysmooth; a ring portion having a first face and a second face opposite tothe first face; said ring portion forming a ring with its hollow portionoriented such that an axis passing through a center of the hollowportion is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the one-piece elasticbody, said ring portion having an elongate projection with a rounded tipprojecting from a side thereof in the direction of the longitudinalaxis; and an elongate body portion between said anchor portion and saidring portion, said body portion having end portions that taper in bothside and top views, said body portion having a longitudinal grooverunning along a portion of its length and a second aperture providingaccess to the tunnel. The first face of the ring portion and the firstface of the anchor portion are on a first side of the one-piece elasticbody, and the second face of the ring portion and the second face of theanchor portion are on a second side of the one-piece elastic body. Theside of said ring portion from which the elongate projection extends is180 degrees offset from the juncture where said ring portion and saidelongate body meet. The ring portion and the anchor portion are sized tobe arranged as follows when said ring portion and said anchor portionare properly coupled: the ring of said ring portion is elastically fitsaround the groove of the anchor such that the hollow portion is taken upby the anchor, and on the side of the second face of said ring portion,the ring rests on the flange; and the elongate projection with a roundedtip is inside the tunnel, extending through the first aperture, whilebeing visible through the second aperture in a bottom view of theone-piece elastic body. Optionally, the elongate projection may projectfrom a plane defining the second aperture. Alternatively, the elongateprojection may not project from the plane defining the second aperture.

The fastening device may be one such device of a set, a kit, or asystem. Optionally, the set/kit/system can include two or more, three ormore, four or more, etc. number of fastening devices. Optionally, thedevices may be of the same configuration and/or size or some or all ofthe devices may be of different configurations and sizes. For instance,optionally, the set of said fastening devices can include fasteningdevices each with different overall lengths. Alternatively, the set ofsaid fastening devices can include fastening devices each with a sameoverall length. As yet another alternative, the set of said fasteningdevices can include at least two of said fastening devices havingdifferent overall lengths.

Optionally, the generally cylindrical shaped anchor may be oval shapedin plan view, and the flange may completely surround the base of saidanchor. The ring portion and the anchor portion may be releasablycoupled.

Disclosed embodiments also include a fastening method comprising:providing an elastic device for fastening, the elastic device including:a first portion defining a ring and having a flexible elongateprojection as an extremity of the device; and a second portion coupledto said first portion and having a wall with a protrusion extendingtherefrom and defining a first opening which provides access to a tunnelformed by said second portion; and arranging said device by couplingtogether said first portion and said second portion. Said arrangingincludes placement of the ring of the first portion around theprotrusion of the second portion such that the interior of the ringsurrounds the protrusion and such that the flexible elongate projectionof the first portion fits inside the tunnel via the first opening.

The method can also comprise, before said arranging step, inserting theelastic device into a pair of holes, eyelets, loops, or hooks of anitem. The item may be one of apparel, footwear, luggage, a backpack, abag, a purse, a boxing glove, a punching bag, and football or lacrosseshoulder pads.

In embodiments, optionally, the protrusion of the second portion mayinclude on its upper face a removable and replaceable portion, theremovable and replaceable portion being removable and replaceable tochange a color configuration of the device and/or to change a logo orother indicia on the upper face of the protrusion. The upper face of theprotrusion can be visible and not concealed when the first and secondportions are coupled together. Optionally, in embodiments, a portion ofdevice(s) as shown and described herein may include a portion that isphosphorescent and/or a portion that flashes.

Optionally, in embodiments, the elastic device, the one-piece flexibledevice, and the fastening device for fastening a first hole, eyelet,loop, or hook on an article of footwear or apparel and a second hole,eyelet, loop, or hook on the article of footwear or apparel can includea portion that is phosphorescent and/or a portion that flashes.

The elastic device, the one-piece flexible device, and the fasteningdevice for fastening a first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on an articleof footwear or apparel and a second hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on thearticle of footwear or apparel may be made by molding, for instanceinjection molding. As an example, the anchor portion or the like may beinjection molded in a first step, and the remainder of the device may beinjection molded around the anchor portion in another step.Alternatively, the entire device may be created in one injection moldingstep.

Embodiments of the disclosed invention also include apparel, footwear,bags, luggage, backpacks, purses, boxing gloves, punching bags, andshoulder pads that implement fastening devices and systems and methodsthereof according to the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will hereinafter be described in detail below with referenceto the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals representlike elements. The accompanying drawings have not necessarily been drawnto scale. Any values dimensions illustrated in the accompanying graphsand figures are for illustration purposes only and may not representactual or preferred values or dimensions. Where applicable, somefeatures may not be illustrated to assist in the description ofunderlying features.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a device according to embodimentsof the invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view of the device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a left side view of the device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a right side view of the device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a first end view of the device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a second end view of the device shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of a fastening device according toembodiments of the present invention, such as the device shown in FIGS.1-7, having first and second ends thereof coupled together.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the fastening device of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the fastening device of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is a right side view of the fastening device of FIG. 8.

FIG. 12 is a left side view of the fastening device of FIG. 8.

FIG. 13 is an end view of the fastening device of FIG. 8.

FIG. 14 is an end view opposite to the end view of FIG. 13, of thefastening device of FIG. 8.

FIG. 15A is a front perspective view of a plurality of fastening devicesaccording to embodiments of the present invention arranged in footwear.

FIG. 15B is a front perspective view of a plurality of fastening devicesaccording to embodiments of the present invention arranged in an articleof clothing.

FIG. 16A shows a top view of a fastening device according to anotherembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16B shows a portion of the fastening device of FIG. 16A.

FIG. 16C shows interaction between portions of the fastening device ofFIG. 16A.

FIG. 16D shows a plurality of fastening devices according to FIGS. 16Athrough 16C arranged in a piece of footwear.

FIG. 17A shows a top view of a fastening device according to yet anotherembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17B shows a portion of the fastening device shown in FIG. 17A.

FIGS. 18-20 show top views of fastening devices according to additionalembodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 21A-C show views of portions of an adjustable fastening deviceaccording to embodiments of the present invention.

FIGS. 22A-E show views of portions of fastening devices according toadditional embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a partial view of a piece of footwear having a plurality offastening devices according to FIG. 22E.

FIG. 24A shows an alternative fastening device embodiment according tothe present invention.

FIG. 24B shows yet another alternative fastening device embodimentaccording to the present invention.

FIG. 24C is a partial view of a piece of footwear implementing thefastening device of FIG. 24B.

FIG. 25 is yet another embodiment of a fastening device according to thepresent invention.

FIG. 26 shows a system comprised of fastening devices and ornamentalpieces arranged in a piece of footwear according to an embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 27 is a flow chart of a method according to embodiments of thepresent invention.

DESCRIPTION

The description set forth below in connection with the appended drawingsis intended as a description of various embodiments of the disclosedsubject matter and is not intended to represent the only embodiments inwhich the disclosed subject matter may be practiced. The descriptionincludes specific details for the purpose of providing a thoroughunderstanding of the disclosed subject matter. However, it will beapparent to those skilled in the art that the disclosed subject mattermay be practiced without these specific details. In some instances,well-known structures and components may be shown in block diagram formin order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the disclosed subjectmatter.

Generally speaking, embodiments of the present invention relate tofastening or closure devices and systems and methods thereof. Inparticular, embodiments of the present invention can include a fasteningdevice or a plurality of fastening devices. In embodiments, eachfastening device may have a body (e.g., a one-piece or unitary body)with opposing ends that are configured and operative to be coupledtogether or to be coupled to their respective complement in another ofsaid fastening devices. In alternative embodiments, the ends may not beconfigured and operative to be coupled together.

Systems according to embodiments of the disclosed invention can becomprised of a plurality of fastening devices of same or differingconfigurations and/or one or more ornamental pieces. See, for example,FIG. 26. Incidentally, in embodiments, a portion or portions of thedevice may be separable or removable from the body, for instance, forreplacement thereof.

Fastening devices according to embodiments of the present invention maybe used as fasteners or closures for items configured for lacing, forinstance, including apparel, footwear, bags, luggage, backpacks, purses,boxing gloves, punching bags, shoulder pads, or the like. Fasteningdevices and systems according to embodiments of the present inventioncan be used to replace completely or partially the use of laces forparticular items. Devices according to embodiments of the presentinvention also may have ends thereof fastened together to form a pieceof jewelry, such as a bracelet, belt, necklace, or the like, or tosimply make a relatively longer fastening device wherein free ends ofthe furthest apart devices in end-to-end configuration are coupledtogether.

Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention may provide a means bywhich to fasten, close, or secure an article of footwear for user wearto thereby replace completely or partially laces. Such partial or fullreplacement of laces can provide a safer means by which to fasten orotherwise close the footwear when worn by a user. Embodiments of thepresent invention also may allow a user to customize and decorate thelook and layout of his or her footwear or other article/item as setforth herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-7, which show an embodiment of a fastening orclosure device 100 according to the present invention, the device 100can have a one-piece or unitary body comprised of a first portion 106and a second portion 110. Optionally, the device 100 can include anelongate body portion 101. The elongate body portion 101 may havetapered ends at respective interfaces with said first portion 106 andsecond portion 110. Optionally, the elongate body 101 can have a grooveor trench 102 or grooves or trenches arranged thereon, for instancelongitudinally as indicated by groove 102. The groove 102 may make body101 more flexible, for instance, for insertion of the device in andthrough an eyelet. Further, the groove 102 may assist with compressionand elastic expansion in order to avoid crumples and to facilitatethreading the frame into the eyelet.

The one-piece body can be flexible and elastic, made out of any suitablematerial, such as an elastomer (e.g., synthetic rubber) or the like.That is, the body may be bent or otherwise manipulated to take aparticular form or shape, for instance, to position, insert, orotherwise affix or arrange the device to an item or article as set forthherein. See, for example, FIGS. 8-15B, 16B, 16C, 16D, 17B, 23, and 26.Portions of the body, during placement, positioning, arranging, and/oraffixing of the device on or to an item or article, and/or during use orwear of the item or article, may stretch or be caused to stretch. Thus,the body may be caused to expand or contract when different forces areexperienced. Upon removal of the device from the item or article, thedevice may return to its original form (e.g., non-stretched,uncompressed, and optionally non-bent form) or substantially originalform.

The first portion 106 can form or define a ring or annular part with ahollow portion 107 and may be at an end 104 of portion 101 (or inembodiments portion 104 may be considered part of first portion 106).The inside of the ring in plan view may be one of circular, oval,rectangular, or square. Further, in embodiments, the ring may bereinforced with respect to other portions of the body, for instancebased on its thickness, its composition, or a hardened material embeddedtherein, such as a plastic or metallic ring or semi-ring. Suchreinforcement or otherwise constitution of the ring can increaseresistance to tearing, for instance.

First portion 106 can also include a single, flexible elongate digit orprotrusion 108 as an extremity of the device 100. Alternatively, theelongate digit or protrusion 108 may be relatively rigid, as compared tothe first portion 106. Optionally, the tip of the protrusion 108 may berounded or pointed. The protrusion 108 may extend from the ring at anangle 180 degrees from the juncture at which the ring meets portion 104of the device 100. In its original or as-formed form (e.g., non-twisted,unbent form), the ring may have its hollow portion 107 oriented suchthat an axis passing through the center of the hollow portion 107 isperpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the device 100.

As will be discussed below, protrusion 108 may assist with insertion ofthe device 100 through an eyelet for instance—a needle tip if you will.Protrusion 108 also may assist with maintaining retention of the firstportion 106 and the second portion 110 together.

Second portion 110 may be at an end 103 of portion 101 (or inembodiments portion 103 may be considered part of second portion 110).Second portion 110 can have a first face and a second face opposite tothe first face. The first face can have a wall which can have anupstanding portion 114 and an anchor portion 111. The second face may besubstantially smooth. Incidentally, the term “anchor” is used to denotethat portion 111 can be used for coupling the first portion 106 to thesecond portion 110 as will be described below in greater detail.

Anchor portion 111 may be defined as a projection or protrusion whichextends from the wall. In embodiments, anchor portion 111 may bereinforced with respect to other portions of the body, for instancebased on its thickness, its composition, a hardened material embeddedtherein, such as a plastic or metallic plug, and/or its structuralconfiguration. Such reinforcement may assist with retention of the ringof the first portion 106 around the anchor portion 111. Alternatively,anchor portion 111 may be made of a different material—harder or morerigid, for instance—than surrounding portions, such as end 103, flange113, and wall portion 114. For example, anchor portion 111 may be madeof a plastic, whereas surrounding portions may be made of a moreflexible elastomer. As with the case of a reinforced anchor portion 111,a harder, more rigid anchor portion 111 may assist with retention of thering of the first portion 106 around the anchor portion 111. That is, amore stable and reliable anchor structure may be provided for the firstportion 106 to be coupled to.

Anchor portion 111 may have any suitable configuration, such asgenerally cylindrical. The anchor portion 111 in plan view may be one ofoval, circular, rectangular, or square. Optionally, the plan view shapeof the anchor portion 111 may be identical to the plan view shape of theinside of the ring. Alternatively, the plan view shape of the anchorportion 111 may not be identical to the plan view shape of the inside ofthe ring.

Optionally, anchor portion 111 may have a sidewall with a continuousgroove 112, for instance. Alternatively, the groove 112 may bediscontinuous. Groove 112 may be sized and shaped based on the size andshape of the ring of first portion 106 so that the first portion 106 canbe coupled to the anchor portion 111. Alternatively, anchor portion 111may have in the place of groove 112 a convex portion and a correspondinggroove may be formed along the inner wall of the ring of the firstportion 106 so these portions of the anchor portion 111 and the firstportion 106 fit together nicely. In embodiments, anchor portion 111 canhave a mixture of convex and concave (i.e., grooved) portions around itssidewall and the inner portion of the ring of the first portion 106 canhave complementary convex and concave portions. Thus, it is apparentthat embodiments of the present invention contemplate a number ofcomplementary mating features for the anchor portion 111 and the firstportion 106, and the above-indicated configurations are merelynon-limiting examples.

Anchor portion 111 may have a top thereof that is flat or domed. Thus,in embodiments, where anchor portion 111 includes a domed top and acontinuous groove 112, the anchor portion 111 may be mushroom shaped(e.g., as shown in FIGS. 4-6). The groove 112 can be sized to receive acorresponding portion of the inside of the ring.

In embodiments, optionally, a portion of the wall may form a flange 113around the base of the anchor portion 111. The flange 113 may completelysurround anchor portion 111 in plan view, or it may partially surroundanchor portion 111.

The wall may also have a portion thereof 114 which defines a firstopening or aperture 115, which provides access to a tunnel or a channelformed in the second portion 110. Wall portion 114 may rise verticallyor alternatively generally upward and away from anchor portion 111 andmay be characterized as an upstand or upstanding wall. Optionally, thechannel or tunnel may be a dead end tunnel/channel having an end thereofformed by the second portion 110. Alternatively, and as shown in FIG. 3,the second portion 110 can include a second opening 105 on the secondside of the device 100 opposite the first side of the device 100associated with the wall portion 114 and the anchor portion 111. Thesecond opening 105 can provide access to the tunnel or channel. Thetunnel or channel can be used as container for the protrusion 108, forinstance, to act as a shield or barrier against unwanted or inadvertentexternal forces attempting to act on the protrusion 108.

FIGS. 8-14 show various views of device 100 with first and secondportions 106, 110 properly coupled together. As shown in FIGS. 8-14, thefirst portion 106 and the second portion 110 are coupled such that thefirst face of the second portion 110 faces the second face of the firstportion 106. Optionally, portions 106, 110 may be rotated with respectto each other such that the first face of the second portion 110 facesthe first face of the first portion 106 when portions 106, 110 areproperly coupled together.

As shown in FIGS. 8-14, the inside 107 of the ring of the first portion106 is sized to fit around the anchor portion 111, and the first opening115 and the channel or tunnel are sized such that the projection 108fits therethrough and therein, respectively, with a base of theprojection 108 arranged adjacent to the first opening 115. Morespecifically, for coupling the first and second portions 106, 110together, the ring of the first portion 106 can elastically fit aroundthe groove 112 of the anchor portion 111 such that the hollow portion107 of the ring is taken up by the body of the anchor portion 111. Inthe case where flange 113 is implemented, the face of the ring portion106 may rest on the flange 113.

The extreme-most portion of the projection 108 may be rounded as shownin FIGS. 1-5, or it may form a relatively sharp point. The projectionmay fit inside of the tunnel or channel via first opening or aperture115. In embodiments having no second opening or aperture 105, theprojection 108 may be completely hidden. In the case of embodimentshaving optional opening or aperture 105, the projection 108 may bevisible through the second opening 105. Optionally, the projection 108does not project from a plane defining the second aperture when theprojection 108 is fully and properly positioned within the tunnel orchannel. In embodiments, proper positioning of the projection 108 canmean when the base of the projection 108 is adjacent to the firstopening 115. Alternatively, the projection may project from the planedefining the second aperture when the projection 108 is fully andproperly positioned within the tunnel or channel.

In embodiments, anchor portion 111 may have on its upper face, which isvisible and not concealed when the first and second portions 106, 110are coupled together, a removable and replaceable portion (notexplicitly shown). The removable and replaceable portion may beremovable and replaceable to change a color configuration of the deviceand/or to change a logo or other indicia on the upper face of theprotrusion.

FIG. 15A is a front perspective view of a plurality of fastening devices100 arranged in footwear 200. The plurality of devices 100 may come aspart of a kit or package of devices 100. Optionally, the kit may containmore devices 100 than shown. FIG. 15B is a front perspective view of aplurality of fastening devices 100 arranged in an article of clothing250. The plurality of devices 100 may come as part of a kit or packageof devices 100. Optionally, the kit may contain more devices 100 thanshown. As indicated herein, devices according to embodiments of thepresent invention are not limited to being used with the footwear andshorts shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B.

FIGS. 16A-16C show a fastening device 300 according to anotherembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 16D shows a plurality offastening devices 300 according to FIGS. 16A through 16C arranged in anarticle of footwear 350.

Device 300 has a first end portion 306, a second end portion 310, and abody portion 301 between the first and second end portions 306, 310. Thebody portion 301 may be flexible so as to bend in order to allow thefirst end portion 306 to be positioned relative to the second endportion 310, for instance as shown in FIGS. 16C and 16D, with part ofthe body portion 301 residing within an inner or inside portion ofsecond end portion 310. Body portion 301 may, in its natural form, benon-arcuate. Alternatively, in its natural form, the body portion 301may be curved or arcuate. The arcuate orientation of the body portion301 may be such that it suggests the direction in which to manipulatethe first end portion 306 relative to the second end portion 310 inorder to properly couple the end portions together, such as shown inFIG. 16D.

Furthermore, second end portion 310 may be configured and operative asan anchor portion so to speak to prevent the first end portion 306 frommoving at all or optionally to a degree whereby the first end portion306 and second end portion 310 would be no longer coupled together.Thus, in embodiments, second end portion 310 may allow the body portion301 and first end portion 306 to move relative to it, or vice versawithout the ends coming uncoupled.

The second end portion 310 may be configured with an open end portion311 and a curved sidewall having opposing ends 312, 313 that define anaccess 314 to the inside portion formed by the curved sidewall. Access314 may have a narrowest part that tapers or widens at one or both endsthereof. FIGS. 16A-16D, for example, show access 314 tapering atopposite ends. Access 314 provides a means by which to couple (anddecouple) the first end portion 306 to the second end portion 310. Morespecifically, first end portion 306 may be arranged relative to thesecond end portion 310 in overlapping fashion as implied by FIG. 16Csuch that the body portion 301 is adjacent access 314 and such that thefirst end portion 306, in this embodiment the ball-shaped portion,extends past the access 314. Body portion 301, which may be slightlylarger than access 314, can be arranged within the inside portion formedby the curved sidewall via access 314 as shown in FIG. 16C. Opposingends 312, 313 may be caused to deform slightly as the body portion 301is arranged within the inside portion. In embodiments, access 314 doesnot allow radial inward or outward access to and from the inside portionby the first end portion 306.

The first end portion 306 may be configured as a ball or some otherbulbous or enlarged formation with respect to body portion 301 attachedto or formed in one piece with the body portion 301. First end portion306 can be sized to fit into the inside portion of the second endportion 310. In embodiments, the first end portion 306 may be held inplace at a location about the inside portion. Optionally, second endportion 310 may allow the body portion 301 and first end portion 306 tomove relative to it, or vice versa, without the ends coming uncoupled.

FIG. 17A shows a top view of a fastening device 400 according to yetanother embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 17B shows a portion ofthe fastening device 400 shown in FIG. 17A.

Device 400 can have a one-piece or unitary body comprised of a firstportion 406 and a second portion 410. Optionally, the device 400 caninclude an elongate body portion 401. Generally speaking, the bodyportion 401 can be flexible so as to bend in order to allow the firstend portion 406 to be coupled to the second end portion 410.

Optionally, the elongate body 401 can have a groove or trench or groovesor trenches arranged thereon (not shown), for instance longitudinally.Such a groove or grooves may make body 401 more flexible, for instance,for insertion of the device in and through an eyelet. Further, suchgroove or grooves may assist with compression and elastic expansion inorder to avoid crumples and to facilitate threading the frame into theeyelet.

The one-piece body can be flexible and elastic, made out of any suitablematerial, such as an elastomer (e.g., synthetic rubber) or the like.That is, the body may be bent or otherwise manipulated to take aparticular form or shape, for instance, to position, insert, orotherwise affix or arrange the device to an item or article as set forthherein. Portions of the body, during placement, positioning, arranging,and/or affixing of the device 400 on or to an item or article, and/orduring use or wear of the item or article, may stretch or be caused tostretch. Thus, the body may be caused to expand or contract whendifferent forces are experienced. Upon removal of the device 400 fromthe item or article, the device 400 may return to its original form(e.g., non-stretched, uncompressed, and optionally non-bent form) orsubstantially original form.

In embodiments, one or both of the end portions 406, 410 may beseparately made pieces that are fixedly coupled to the body portion 401.For instance, second end portion 410 may be a separate piece that iscoupled to body portion 401. In embodiments, second end portion 410 maybe made from a different material, plastic for instance, than thematerial from which body portion 401 and/or first end portion 406 aremade (e.g., the flexible and elastic material mentioned above).

The first portion 406 can form or define a ring or annular part with ahollow portion 407. The inside of the ring in plan view may be one ofcircular, oval, rectangular, or square. Further, in embodiments, thering may be reinforced with respect to other portions of the body, forinstance based on its thickness, its composition, or a hardened materialembedded therein, such as a plastic or metallic ring or semi-ring. Suchreinforcement or otherwise constitution of the ring can increaseresistance to tearing, for instance.

Second portion 410 can include an anchor portion 411. As with previousembodiments, the term “anchor” is used to denote that portion 411 can beused for coupling the first portion 406 to the second portion 410.

Anchor portion 411 may be defined as a projection or protrusion whichextends from a base of the second portion 410. In embodiments, anchorportion 411 may be reinforced with respect to other portions of thebody, for instance based on its thickness, its composition, a hardenedmaterial embedded therein, such as a plastic or metallic plug, and/orits structural configuration. Such reinforcement may assist withretention of the ring of the first portion 406 around the anchor portion411. Alternatively, anchor portion 411 may be made of a differentmaterial—harder or more rigid, for instance—than surrounding portions.For example, anchor portion 411 may be made of a plastic, whereas otherportions of device 400 may be made of a more flexible elastomer. As withthe case of a reinforced anchor portion 411, a harder, more rigid anchorportion 411 may assist with retention of the ring of the first portion406 around the anchor portion 411. That is, a more stable and reliableanchor structure may be provided for the first portion 406 to be coupledto.

Anchor portion 411 may have any suitable configuration, such asgenerally cylindrical. The anchor portion 411 in plan view may be one ofoval, circular, rectangular, or square. Optionally, the plan view shapeof the anchor portion 411 may be identical to the plan view shape of theinside of the ring. Alternatively, the plan view shape of the anchorportion 411 may not be identical the plan view shape of the inside ofthe ring.

Optionally, anchor portion 411 may have a sidewall with a continuousgroove 412, for instance. Alternatively, the groove 412 may bediscontinuous. Groove 412 may be sized and shaped based on the size andshape of the ring of first portion 406 so that the first portion 406 canbe coupled to the anchor portion 411. The groove 412 can be sized toreceive a corresponding portion of the inside of the ring.Alternatively, anchor portion 411 may have in the place of groove 412 aconvex portion and a corresponding groove may be formed along the innerwall of the ring of the first portion 406 so these portions of theanchor portion 411 and the first portion 406 fit together. Inembodiments, anchor portion 411 can have a mixture of convex and concave(i.e., grooved) portions around its sidewall and the inner portion ofthe ring of the first portion 406 can have complementary convex andconcave portions. Thus, it is apparent that embodiments of the presentinvention contemplate a number of complementary mating features for theanchor portion 411 and the ring of first portion 406. Accordingly, theabove-indicated configurations are meant as non-limiting examples.

Anchor portion 411 may have a top portion 413 thereof that is flat,domed, concave, or which defines an opening. In embodiments, anchorportion 411 may have on its upper face a removable and replaceableportion. For instance, top portion 413 may be removable and replaceableto change a color configuration of the device and/or to change a logo orother indicia on the upper face of the protrusion. Optionally, topportion 413 may be used as a base to attach charms or the like, forinstance.

Regarding coupling of the first end portion 406 to the second endportion 410, the inside 407 of the ring of the first portion 406 issized to fit around the anchor portion 411. More specifically, forcoupling the first and second portions 406, 410 together, the ring ofthe first portion 406 can elastically fit around the groove 412 of theanchor portion 411 such that the hollow portion 407 of the ring is takenup by the body of the anchor portion 411.

FIGS. 18-20 show top views of fastening devices 500, 600, 700 accordingto additional embodiments of the present invention.

Devices 500, 600, 700 can have a one-piece or unitary body comprised ofrespective first portions 506, 606, 706 and second portions 510, 610,710. Optionally, the devices can include an elongate body portion 501,601, 701. Generally speaking, the body portions 501, 601, 701 can beflexible so as to bend in order to allow respective first end portions506, 606, 706 to be coupled to corresponding second end portions 510,610, 710. Optionally, in embodiments, such as device 500 in FIG. 18 anddevice 600 in FIG. 19, the body portion may be bifurcated with a hollowor void 502, 602 between the two fractions.

Optionally, the elongate bodies 501, 601, 701 can have a groove ortrench or grooves or trenches arranged thereon (not shown), for instancelongitudinally. Such a groove or grooves may make the bodies moreflexible, for instance. Further, such groove or grooves may assist withcompression and elastic expansion in order to avoid crumples and tofacilitate threading.

The one-piece body can be flexible and elastic, made out of any suitablematerial, such as an elastomer (e.g., synthetic rubber) or the like.That is, the body may be bent or otherwise manipulated to take aparticular form or shape, for instance, to position, insert, orotherwise affix or arrange the device to an item or article as set forthherein. Portions of the body, during placement, positioning, arranging,and/or affixing of the devices 500, 600, 700 on or to an item orarticle, and/or during use or wear of the item or article, may stretchor be caused to stretch. Thus, the body may be caused to expand orcontract when different forces are experienced. Upon removal of thedevice 500/600/700 from the item or article, the device 500/600/700 mayreturn to its original form (e.g., non-stretched, uncompressed, andoptionally non-bent form) or substantially original form.

In embodiments, one or both of the end portions 506/606/706 and510/610/710 may be separately made pieces that are fixedly coupled tothe corresponding body portion 501/601/701. For instance, second endportion 510, 610, 710 may be a separate piece that is coupled to bodyportion 501, 601, 701. In embodiments, the second end portion may bemade from a different material, plastic for instance, than the materialfrom which body portion and/or first end portion are made (e.g., theflexible and elastic material mentioned above).

In FIGS. 18 and 19, each of the devices 500, 600 has a first end portion506, 606 with an extremity 507, 607 thereof that can be used to assistwith insertion of the device through an eyelet, for instance, and forgrasping by the wearer to assist with coupling the first end portion tothe second end portion. In devices 500, 600, second end portions 510,610 have a Y-shaped channel 512, 612 formed in-part by a projecting part511, 611 at the fork or part at which the channel branches into twopaths. The shape and configuration of the channel 512, 612 and theprojecting part 511, 611 is complementary with the configuration of thejuncture 508, 608 at which the first end portion 506, 606 meets the bodyportion 501, 601 and the size and shape of the first end portion 506,606. Further, the extremity 507, 607 of the first end portion 506, 606is sized and shaped so as to securely and frictionally fit within thebase portion of the Y-shaped channel. Thus, when the first end portion506, 606 and the second end portion 510, 610 are properly coupledtogether, first end portion 506, 606 are arranged inside trench 512, 612such that the juncture 508, 608 is at the fork or part at which thechannel 512, 612 branches into two paths with the extremity 507, 607facing inwardly, toward body portion 501, 601. Optionally, extremity507, 607 may overlap hollow or void 502, 602 in plan view when the firstand second end portions are properly coupled together. Put another way,extremity 507, 607 may project into hollow or void 502, 602 when thefirst and second end portions are properly coupled together.

Device 700 shown in FIG. 20 expresses a variation in the couplingconcept shown and described with respect to devices 500 and 600 in FIGS.18 and 19, respectively.

First end portion 706 of device 700 includes a hollow or void portion707 (e.g., similar to the ring of previously discussed embodiments).Second end portion 710 includes an anchor portion 711 having aprojection 712. The projection and the hollow portion 707 can be sizedand shaped to be coupled together. For instance, hollow portion 707 canfit around projection 712 when the two end portions 706, 710 areproperly coupled together.

FIGS. 21A-C show views of portions of an adjustable fastening device 800according to embodiments of the present invention.

Generally speaking, fastening device 800 can be adjustable to provide atighter (or looser) fit and/or based on a size or distance of an articleor item to which it is attached. For example, the device 800 can beadjusted to make its length longer for arrangement in two eyelets of anadults shoe as compared to its length for arrangement in two eyelets ina child or teenager's shoe. As another example, the device 800 can beadjusted based on whether the device 800 is oriented horizontally, fromone eyelet to another eyelet at the one eyelet's level, ornon-horizontally, either diagonally or vertically, from one eyelet toanother eyelet below or above the one eyelet, whether in its same columnor the opposing column of eyelets.

Fastening device 800 can have a body portion 801 and an end portion 810.Movably coupled to end portion 810 can be a movable bracket 820 that ismovable along the axis of the body portion 801. Bracket 820 can have agovernor 825 with a downward facing notch that can be positioned intotrenches 826 to hold the bracket 820 in place at a desired position.Bracket 811 can also have coupled to a bottom side thereof an anchorportion 811. Anchor portion 811 may be used as a coupling means to anopposite end of the fastening device (not shown). For example, theopposite end of the fastening device 800 may be configured as with aring or void such as in the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 17A, and 20. An endportion of anchor portion 811 may be placed into and through the ring orvoid to couple opposite ends of the device 800 together. Alternatively,device 800 may have ends being identical to the end portion 810 shown inFIGS. 21A-21C. In this case, each of the ends may have their respectiveanchor portions 811 with end portions thereof inserted into and throughcorresponding eyelets, for instance, of an item or article, therebyfastening one eyelet to another eyelet via the device 800.

FIGS. 22A-22E show views of portions of fastening devices 900, 1000,1100, 1200, and 1300 according to additional embodiments of the presentinvention.

Similar to device 800 indicated above, the devices shown in FIGS.22A-22E have respective end portions 910, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310 coupledto corresponding body portions 901, 1001, 1111, 1201, and 1301.Incidentally, body portion 1301 in FIG. 22E is a bifurcated bodyportion, whereas the other body portions are not bifurcated. Each of theend portions can have attached thereto an anchor portion 911, 1011,1111, 1211, 1312. Optionally, a spacer 1012, 1112, 1312 may be betweenthe anchor portion and the end portions 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310 as shownin FIGS. 22B-22E. Though not shown in FIG. 22A, a spacer also may beimplemented.

Anchor portion 911, 1011, 1111, 1211, 1312 may be used as a couplingmeans to an opposite end of the fastening device (not shown). Forexample, the opposite end of the fastening device may be configured aswith a ring or void such as in the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 17A, and 20.An end portion of anchor portion 911, 1011, 1111, 1211, 1312 may beplaced into and through the ring or void to couple opposite ends of thecorresponding device together. FIG. 22B shows an embodiment havingoptional collars 1020 arranged on body portion 1001. Either of the twoembodiments of collars 1020(1) or 1020(2) may be used. Further, collars1020 may be used with any of the other embodiments as set forth herein,though their configuration may be modified based on the particular bodyportion around with they are placed or to be placed.

Alternatively, any of the devices in FIGS. 22A-22E may have ends beingidentical to the end portion 910, 1010, 1110, 1210, 1310 shown in FIGS.22A-22E. In this case, each of the ends may have their respective anchorportions with end portions thereof inserted into and throughcorresponding eyelets, for instance, of an item or article, therebyfastening one eyelet to another eyelet via the device. FIG. 23 shows anexample of a plurality of devices 1300 from FIG. 22E with their endportions 1310 anchored via anchor portions 1311 in eyelets of an articleof footwear. Not expressly shown, the other end portions of the devices1300 can have their anchor portions anchored in eyelets on the otherside of the footwear.

FIG. 24A shows an alternative fastening device 1400 according toembodiments of the present invention. Device 1400 can have an anchorportion 1410 and a flexible body portion 1401. The anchor portion 1410can be removably coupled to flexible body portion 1401 via threads, forinstance, or another suitable coupling mechanism. Optionally, the otherend of device 1400 can be identical to the end shown in FIG. 24A. Inuse, the flexible body portion 1401 may be threaded through eyelets, forinstance, in any suitable pattern, such that each end of the flexiblebody portion 1401 is exposed. Respective anchor portions 1410 may thenbe removably affixed to the flexible body portion 1401.

FIGS. 24B and 24C show yet another alternative fastening device 1500according to embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 24C is a partialview of a piece of footwear implementing the fastening device 1500 shownin FIG. 24B. Device 1500 can have an anchor portion 1510 and a flexiblebody portion 1501. The anchor portion 1510 of device 1500 can have aspool configuration, whereby the flexible body portion 1501 may bewrapped around the anchor portion's central axis, between end portionsthereof. As can be seen from FIG. 24C, device 1500 can have an endthereof opposite the end with the anchor portion 1510 “threaded” througha number of eyelets in the footwear, with the base of the anchor portion1510 arranged adjacent the first eyelet through which said end wasthreaded, and with a free portion of said end being wrapped around theanchor portion's central axis.

FIG. 25 is yet another embodiment of a fastening device 1600 accordingto the present invention. Fastening device 1600 can have ends with afoldable portion or multiple threads, whereby the overlapping portion1611 can be folded over such that its upper face is facing downward andcontacts the upper face of overlapped portion 1610. The upper faces ofportions 1610 and 1611 can have a means by which to couple to eachother, such as a hook a loop fastening system. Fastening device 1600 maybe “laced” through one or more eyelets and then overlapping portions1611 folded over to keep the fastening device 1600 in place.

FIG. 26 shows a system comprised of fastening devices 100 and ornamentalpieces 1700 arranged in a piece of footwear according to an embodimentof the present invention. Ornamental pieces 1700 can be in the form offlowers, balls or any kind of figure that users may choose to customizeand decorate their footwear. Pieces 1700 may not be solely forornamental purposes and may provide a bumper so to speak with a heightabove fastening devices 100 such that they may block unwanted touchingof the fastening devices 100 by foreign objects (e.g., a bush's limb maystrike piece 1700 rather than device 100 as a jogger jogs with thedevices 100 and pieces 1700 in their shoes). Further, not explicitlyshown, a body portion may extend from one piece 1700 to another piece1700. This body portion may be formed in one piece with the pieces 1700or it may be coupled to each of the pieces to form an integral unit (forexample, as shown in FIG. 24A or similar thereto).

A number of fastening devices and fastening systems have been describedabove and herein. Any of the embodiments may include a portion orportions that are phosphorescent and/or which flash.

FIG. 27 is a flow chart of a method 2800 according to embodiments of thepresent invention. Method 2800 can be a method for forming a fastening,closing, or securing device and/or a method for fastening, closing, orsecuring.

Method 2800 can include providing a device or a plurality of devices asshown and described herein (S2802). For example, the device(s) may be anelastic device for fastening, wherein the elastic device can include: afirst portion defining a ring and having a flexible elongate projectionas an extremity of the device; and a second portion coupled to the firstportion and having a wall with a protrusion extending therefrom anddefining a first opening which provides access to a tunnel or channelformed by the second portion.

The step S2802 can include initially a step of forming the fasteningdevice. For instance, the fastening device may be formed by injectionmolding, either in a single injection molding step or multiple injectionmolding steps. Other forming methods also may be employed, such asreaction injection molding (RIM), compression molding, thermoforming, orthe like.

Method 2800 also can comprise positioning or insertion of device(s) asshown and described herein with respect to an article or an item, suchas apparel, footwear, luggage, a backpack, a bag, a purse, a boxingglove, a punching bag, and football or lacrosse shoulder pads (S2804).

Generally speaking, each device may be positioned or inserted relativeto one or more holes, eyelets, loops, hooks, holes, openings, or thelike of the item or article. For instance, in embodiments, one end ofthe device may be inserted through one eyelet of a shoe, passed over orunder the tongue, and through the other of the eyelets. The end beingpassed through the eyelets may be temporarily deformed, for instancebetween a wearer's fingers, in order to fit through the eyelets.Furthermore, a longitudinal body portion between the ends of the devicemay also temporarily deform as it passes through each eyelet. Inembodiments device(s) having a longitudinal groove in a longitudinalbody portion thereof (e.g., item 102 in FIG. 3), the groove may make thelongitudinal body portion softer and more flexible for insertion andpassage of the body portion through eyelets or the like.

After the device is positioned or inserted through one or more eyelets,loops, hooks, holes, openings, or the like, the device may arranged suchthat its ends are coupled together (S2806), as shown in FIGS. 8, 15A,and 15B, for example. Of course other disclosed and shown embodimentsmay have their ends connected together according to their own uniquecoupling mechanisms. Further, in embodiments, multiple devices may becoupled together in end-to-end fashion, thereby forming a relativelylonger fastening device.

Alternatively, in embodiments such as those shown in FIGS. 21A-21C and22A-22E, the ends of the device may not be threaded through the eyelets,loops, hooks, holes, openings, or the like as indicated above, butrather, each end may be inserted through a corresponding eyelet, loop,hook, opening, or the like. See, for instance, FIG. 23, which shows aplurality of devices 1300 from FIG. 22E having ends 1311 inserted intorespective shoe eyelets on one side of a shoe. Though not shown, endsopposite ends 1311 for each device 1300 are identical to those shown andcan fit into respective shoe eyelets on the other side of the shoe.

Though not explicitly shown in the figures, a fastening means asindicated according to item 19 in FIG. 7 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,506,420 or avariation thereof based on the configuration of the individual fasteningdevice(s) may also be employed with embodiments of the presentinvention. The entire content of U.S. Pat. No. 7,506,420 is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety into the present application.

While the invention has been described in conjunction with a number ofembodiments, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications andvariations would be or are apparent to those of ordinary skill in theapplicable arts. Accordingly, Applicants intend to embrace all suchalternatives, modifications, equivalents, and variations that are withinthe spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A flexible fastening device for fastening a firsthole, eyelet, loop, or hook on an article of footwear or apparel and asecond hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on the article of footwear orapparel, the flexible fastening device having a body comprising: a firstanchor portion having an elongated shape having a first curved end thattapers toward a second curved end; a second anchor portion having anelongated shape having a first curved end that tapers toward a secondcurved end; a body portion; a first spacer adjoining the first anchorportion to the body portion; and a second spacer adjoining the secondanchor portion to the body portion, wherein the body portion is flexibleand is configured and operative to flex, the body portion furtherconfigured such that the first anchor portion can be removably coupledto the first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on an article of footwear orapparel and the second anchor portion can be removably coupled to thesecond hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on the article of footwear orapparel, and wherein the first anchor portion extends outwardly from thefirst spacer and is asymmetric about an axis extending longitudinallythrough the first spacer, the first curved end extends a distance past afirst side surface of the first spacer, and the second curved endextends a distance past a second side surface of the first spacer, andwherein the second anchor portion extends outwardly from the secondspacer and is asymmetric about an axis extending longitudinally throughthe second spacer, the first curved end extends a distance past a firstside surface of the second spacer, and the second curved end extends adistance past a second side surface of the second spacer.
 2. Theflexible fastening device according to claim 1, wherein the flexiblefastening device is one such device in a set of the flexible fasteningdevices, the set including at least two of the flexible fasteningdevices.
 3. The flexible fastening device according to claim 2, whereinthe set of the flexible fastening devices includes at least two flexiblefastening devices each with different overall lengths.
 4. The flexiblefastening device according to claim 2, wherein the set of the flexiblefastening devices includes at least two flexible fastening devices eachwith a same overall length.
 5. The flexible fastening device accordingto claim 1, wherein said body portion has a bifurcated body whichdefines a void region between each of two portions of the bifurcatedbody, and wherein the void region runs from a first end of the bodyportion to a second end of the body portion.
 6. The flexible fasteningdevice of claim 1, the first anchor portion and second anchor portionextending longitudinally outward in opposing directions from the bodyportion, the first anchor portion and the second anchor portionextending along a central longitudinal axis of the body portion.
 7. Theflexible fastening device of claim 1, wherein each of the first spacerand the second spacer extend perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of thebody portion.
 8. The flexible fastening device of claim 1, wherein thefirst anchor portion has a width that narrows along a length of thefirst anchor portion from the first curved end to the second curved end.9. The flexible fastening device of claim 1, wherein the body portion isbifurcated.
 10. The flexible fastening device of claim 1, wherein thefirst anchor portion and the second anchor portion are identical. 11.The flexible fastening device of claim 1, wherein the flexible fasteningdevice is symmetrical about an axis extending perpendicular to alongitudinal axis of the body portion.
 12. The flexible fastening deviceof claim 1, wherein the body portion is substantially rectangular. 13.The flexible fastening device of claim 1, wherein the body portion issubstantially cylindrical.
 14. A method of using the flexible fasteningdevice of claim 1, the method comprising: inserting the first anchorportion through a first eyelet of a shoe; and inserting the secondanchor portion through a second eyelet of the shoe, wherein the flexiblefastening device secures the first eyelet to the second eyelet.
 15. Theflexible fastening device of claim 1, wherein the first curved end andthe second curved end are each convex surfaces.
 16. The flexiblefastening device of claim 1, wherein the first curved end of the firstanchor portion has a width greater than the second curved end of thefirst anchor portion.
 17. The flexible fastening device of claim 1,wherein the first anchor portion is tear-drop shaped.
 18. A flexiblefastening device for fastening a first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on anarticle of footwear or apparel and a second hole, eyelet, loop, or hookon the article of footwear or apparel, the flexible fastening devicecomprising: a first end for coupling, the first end comprising a firstspacer and a first anchor portion; a second end for coupling, the secondend comprising a second spacer and a second anchor portion; and a bodyextending between the first end and the second end and having alongitudinal axis, the body for adjoining the first end and the secondend, wherein the body is flexible and is configured such that the firstend is removably coupled to the first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on anarticle of footwear or apparel and the second end is removably coupledto the second hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on the article of footwear orapparel, wherein the first end comprises an axis extending perpendicularto the longitudinal axis, wherein the first anchor portion extendsoutwardly from a first side surface of the first spacer and outwardlyfrom a second side surface of the first spacer, the first side surfaceopposite from the second side surface, wherein a first curved portion ofthe first anchor portion extends a first distance past the first sidesurface and a second curved portion extends a second distance past thesecond side surface of the first spacer that is greater than the firstdistance, and wherein the first end, the second end, and the body areeach symmetric about the longitudinal axis.
 19. The flexible fasteningdevice of claim 18, wherein the first anchor portion tapers from thefirst curved portion to the second curved portion.
 20. A flexiblefastening device for fastening a first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on anarticle of footwear or apparel and a second hole, eyelet, loop, or hookon the article of footwear or apparel, the flexible fastening devicecomprising: a first end for coupling, the first end comprising a firstspacer and a first anchor portion; a second end for coupling, the secondend comprising a second spacer and a second anchor portion; and a bodyextending between the first end and the second end and having alongitudinal axis, the body for adjoining the first end and the secondend, wherein the body is flexible and is configured such that the firstend is removably coupled to the first hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on anarticle of footwear or apparel and the second end is removably coupledto the second hole, eyelet, loop, or hook on the article of footwear orapparel, wherein the first end comprises an axis extending perpendicularto the longitudinal axis, wherein the first anchor portion extendsoutwardly from a first side surface of the first spacer and outwardlyfrom a second side surface of the first spacer, the first side surfaceopposite from the second side surface, wherein a first curved portion ofthe first anchor portion extends a first distance past the first sidesurface and a second curved portion extends a second distance past thesecond side surface of the first spacer that is greater than the firstdistance, and wherein the first anchor portion tapers from the firstcurved portion to the second curved portion.